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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

People today often buy new things instead of fixing the old things. Discuss the causes and effect of this. What are the causes of this trend? What do they affect on themselves and others? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

People today often buy new things instead of fixing the old things. Discuss the causes and effect of this. What are the causes of this trend?

In today's society, the trend of purchasing new items rather than repairing old ones has become increasingly prevalent. This behavior can be attributed to several factors, and it has significant implications for both individuals and the broader community.

One of the primary causes of this trend is the widespread availability of affordable consumer goods. Companies often produce low-cost items that are easily replaceable, leading consumers to opt for buying new products instead of investing in repairs. Additionally, the rapid advancements in technology have resulted in a constantly evolving market, making older items seem outdated and less desirable.

The effects of this behavior are multi-faceted. On a personal level, individuals may experience a temporary sense of satisfaction from acquiring new possessions. However, this could lead to a cycle of overconsumption and contribute to environmental issues such as increased waste and resource depletion. Furthermore, the constant turnover of goods may have financial implications for individuals, as they may end up spending more money on frequent purchases instead of investing in long-lasting items.

From a broader perspective, the trend of discarding old items in favor of new ones can have detrimental effects on the environment. The accumulation of discarded products contributes to pollution and landfill overflow, impacting the natural ecosystem. Additionally, the manufacturing and disposal of new items generate carbon emissions, further exacerbating environmental challenges.

In conclusion, the inclination towards buying new items rather than repairing old ones stems from various factors such as affordability and technological advancements. However, this behavior has far-reaching consequences, including environmental degradation and financial strain on individuals. It is imperative for society to re-evaluate its consumer habits and consider the long-term impact of such choices.

Model Essay #2:

People today often buy new things instead of fixing the old things. Discuss the causes and effect of this. What are the causes of this trend?

In contemporary society, there is a prevalent tendency for individuals to opt for purchasing new items over repairing existing ones. This trend can be attributed to several factors and has far-reaching effects on both individuals and the wider community.

One of the primary causes of this behavior is the fast-paced nature of modern lifestyles. With time being a valuable commodity, individuals often find it more convenient to replace a malfunctioning item with a new one rather than investing time and effort into repairs. Additionally, the rise of planned obsolescence in consumer goods, where products are intentionally designed to have a limited lifespan, contributes to the inclination towards new purchases.

The effects of this trend are significant. On a personal level, individuals may enjoy the convenience and perceived time-saving benefits of acquiring new items. However, this approach may lead to a culture of disposability and impede the development of practical skills related to maintenance and repair. Furthermore, the constant influx of new products contributes to increased waste and resource depletion, with adverse environmental consequences.

From a broader perspective, the trend of favoring new purchases over repairs has implications for the economy. It drives consumerism and perpetuates a cycle of continuous spending, which may not be financially sustainable for individuals in the long run. Moreover, the disposal of old items adds to the strain on waste management systems and exacerbates environmental challenges associated with excessive consumption.

In conclusion, the preference for buying new items instead of repairing old ones is influenced by factors such as convenience and the prevalence of planned obsolescence. However, this behavior has multifaceted effects, including environmental degradation and economic implications. It is crucial for individuals and society as a whole to consider the long-term consequences of prioritizing new purchases and to explore alternative approaches that promote sustainability and responsible consumption.

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